Big Unit Operating Smoothly

Randy Johnson wasn’t as overpowering as in his previous start (seven strikeouts, three innings), but he was just as effective in 31/3 scoreless innings in a 10-1 victory over the A’s. His ERA through three outings is 1.08, and that might be by design.

“When I come to a new team, I feel like I need to impress them and do well to a certain extent,” said Johnson, 45, adding he usually starts slowly in spring training . . . “These are giant strides for me, considering where I’ve been in the past. My back feels great,” he said. “I’m just trying to get my arm where it needs to be.”

Everyone seemed to be sleeping on Johnson this winter. I have this feeling everyone except the Giants are going to regret it.